Continuing the archive — slow essays and observations from marshes, mangroves, and pondsides around the world.
№ 175 While ducks and rats may seem like unlikely bedfellows, the truth is that these two animals often end up sharing the same space. Yes, ducks can potentially attract rats, but not directly. It's the...
When most people think of ducks, they picture the classic quacking sound. But do male ducks quack? Sort of but not really. Male ducks do quack, but their quacks are usually softer and raspier than...
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№ 173 It's fascinating to observe the behavior of a female duck before her eggs hatch. While many people believe that all ducks are the same, it turns out that different types of ducks behave differently...
Many people have seen ducks, whether they're swimming in a pond or waddling around a park. But how do ducks stay afloat? Ducks float due to their buoyant bodies and waterproof feathers. Their bodies...
№ 172 № 171 One of the behaviors pet ducks that pique the interest of many people is their tail wagging. Why does duck tail wagging mean? Ducks wag their tails as a form of communication and expression. It's...
A small-flock keeper's guide to the 12 duck breeds that handle winter genuinely well, the three that don't, and the housing and feed setup that keeps any duck alive through January.
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№ 169 Ducks are delightful creatures with their own unique personalities, and one of the joys of keeping ducks as pets or in your backyard is the opportunity to give them a special name. Whether you're...
Ducks love fruit, but can they safely eat fruit? Yes, ducks can eat fruit, and many fruits can be a nutritious treat for them. Offer fruits like berries, seedless grapes, chopped apples, and melons...
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№ 167 Yes, ducks can and will eat eggs, especially if they are cracked or broken. Consuming eggs provides ducks with a rich source of protein and nutrients. However, if ducks develop a habit of eating...
The falcated duck (Mareca falcata), also called the falcated teal, is a dabbling duck native to eastern Asia. It breeds in eastern Russia, northern Japan, northeastern China and North Korea. It is a...
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№ 165 The mating season for ducks typically occurs during springtime. During this time, male ducks will begin to court female ducks in an attempt to win their favor. But how exactly do ducks mate? Duck...
Ducks are well-known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in various environments. These birds are adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can be found on every continent except Antarctica....
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